§ 77. Mr. E. J. Williamsasked the First Commissioner of Works whether he is aware that there are more than 3,000 persons unemployed in the five Employment Exchanges in the area of the Bridgend Royal Arsenal; and whether he will insist that 12-hour shifts at the arsenal shall cease in order that local labour may obtain employment?
§ Sir P. SassoonThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part, I have nothing to add to the reply given to the hon. Member on 16th December, except that I understand that the shifts are for 10 and 11 hours and not 12 hours.
§ Mr. WilliamsDoes not the First Commissioner think that the working of 10- or 11-hour shift is a breach of the civil engineering rates with which the contractors are expected to comply, and is he aware that more than 120 persons have been imported into that district out of 259 engaged?
§ Sir P. SassoonWe have to allow the time taken for machinery adjustments, meals and week-end repairs, and if that is done two of the shifts work only 35 hours, and one only 39½ hours. In those circumstances we should not get the requisite men.
§ Mr. ThorneWhat stands in the way of the working of three 8-hour shifts?
§ Sir P. SassoonI have said that we should not be able to get the men.
§ Mr. WilliamsThere are more than 500 men on the local unemployed register. Surely the Prime Minister will look into this matter. Local labour is left idle while persons are imported.